Independent journalist Camila Acosta from CubaNet faced an interruption on Friday afternoon when two women in plain clothes, wearing masks, approached her during a live broadcast of the Good Friday procession in Havana. They demanded her ID card. The video captured the moment when the women, claiming to be from the MININT (Ministry of the Interior), refused to reveal their identities or show any credentials, insisting that Acosta hand over her official identification.
One of these agents asserted, "We are from MININT," as the tense exchange continued, while the other insisted that Acosta could not record them. After inspecting her ID, the two women left, allowing the journalist to proceed with her work.
The incident, which took place at the intersection of 11th and E streets in El Vedado, seemed designed to intimidate the independent reporter. Acosta has been consistently harassed over recent years and has been a target of state-run media defamation.
Camila Acosta has faced multiple police interrogations and house arrest situations preventing her from leaving her home for extended periods. In April 2024, she was detained in Cárdenas, Matanzas, while on her way to visit the families of political prisoners. On that occasion, she was held at a PNR station for an hour before being escorted back to her Havana home by a convoy of patrol cars.
Religious Observances Under Scrutiny in Cuba
Despite ongoing religious censorship in Cuba, some Catholic communities managed to hold Good Friday processions in their areas. These events, which had received official permission, stood out against other religious activities that were banned throughout the week in various parts of the country. This situation highlights the fraught relationship between the Cuban regime and the Catholic Church.
One such authorized procession was the one Camila Acosta was reporting on, which took place at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish on the bustling Línea street in El Vedado.
FAQ about Religious Freedom in Cuba
What is the MININT and its role in Cuba?
The Ministry of the Interior (MININT) is a Cuban government body responsible for state security and internal order, often involved in monitoring and controlling political dissent.
How does the Cuban government handle religious activities?
The Cuban government tightly regulates religious activities, granting permission selectively, often leading to tensions between religious communities and state authorities.
Who is Camila Acosta?
Camila Acosta is an independent journalist working for CubaNet, known for reporting on issues of political and social significance in Cuba, often facing harassment from authorities.